Are we making disciples yet?

There is little argument to the statement, “Structural design determines organizational effectiveness.”This means that the current structure of most churches prevents them from being effective in making disciples.Discipleship happens in community which values relationships above administrative checks and balances.Most churches have an administrative council structure that functions to regulate the personnel, finances, worship and facilities. This usually constitutes a lot of meetings and people hours. Ministry effectiveness is often measured in how much was collected vs. how much was given in mission and outreach.How many people attended vs. how many people had their lives transformed in worship this week?As disciples shouldn’t we be asking how many non Christians did you meet this week and share the gospel?How much time did you spend on praying for people outside of the church?How many meals did you share with people who do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ?

A Discipleship Council that focuses on disciple making disciplines, non committees, would be more effective.Can these administrative functions be handled by a small ministry team of three –five men and women?This would free up everyone else to engage in discipleship.We live in a busy world with multiple schedules and expectations.If our primary priority is to make disciples we must find time to engage in building the relationships in the places where we live our lives.Soccer games, PTA, bowling, at work, in our neighborhood, with our family and at the local coffee shop.

Leaders within the Disciple Making Movement must examine their structure for disciple making effectiveness. Do so with prayer and humility. For some people you will be attacking their sacred cow.